Breakdown

Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, Tom Petty

About Breakdown

"Breakdown" is the first single from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' self-titled debut album. It became a Top 40 hit in the United States and Canada. Played live, Petty sometimes incorporated "Breakdown" with Ray Charles's "Hit the Road Jack". A live recording of this variation appears on The Live Anthology.


Year:
2009
7:55
154 
#2

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It's alright if you love me
It's alright if you don't
I'm not afraid of you runnin' away, honey
I get the feeling you won't

There is no sense in pretending
Your eyes give you away
Something inside you is feeling like I do
We said all there is to say

Baby, breakdown, go ahead and give it to me
Breakdown, honey, take me through the night (baby, baby, breakdown)
Breakdown, now I'm standin' here, can't you see?
Breakdown, it's all right
It's all right
It's all right

Breakdown, go ahead and give it to me
Breakdown, honey, take me through the night (baby, baby, breakdown)
Breakdown, now I'm standin' here, can't you see?
Breakdown, it's all right
It's all right
It's all right

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Tom Petty

Thomas Earl "Tom" Petty (born October 20, 1950) was an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He was the frontman of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and was a founding member of the late 1980s supergroup Traveling Wilburys and Mudcrutch. He had also performed under the pseudonyms of Charlie T. Wilbury, Jr. and Muddy Wilbury. more »

15 fans

Written by: Tom Petty

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Album Information
"Breakdown" is the debut single from American rock band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers self-titled debut album. First released in 1976, the album carried the same name as the band.
Chart Performance
The song did rather well, reaching number 40 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. It was their first song to chart and paved the way for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' successful musical career.
Song Length
"Breakdown" has a relatively short duration compared to some songs, with a runtime of only 2:43 minutes.
Songwriter
Tom Petty is the sole credited writer of the song "Breakdown." This showcases his talents not only as a performer but as a songwriter too.
Cover Versions
"Breakdown" has been covered by a variety of different artists over the years ranging from Suzi Quatro to the Foo Fighters, proving its enduring popularity and recognition.
Live Performances
The song was a staple at Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers' live shows. In fact, live versions of the song often extended the duration to include audience participation, making it a favorite among fans at concerts.
Genre
"Breakdown" is primarily a rock song but integrates elements of new wave and jangle pop, bearing testament to the diverse influences of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.
Inspirational Lyrics
The song "Breakdown" has lines that serve as inspirational quotes such as, "It's alright if you love me, it's alright if you don't. I'm not afraid of you running away, honey, I got the feeling you won't."
Tragic Link
After Tom Petty's untimely death in 2017, many fans went back to "Breakdown" as a source of comfort and tribute to the legendary artist, highlighting its continuing significance and emotional impact.
Availability
"Breakdown" is available on most major streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. This song continues to be discovered by new generations of music lovers, thus keeping its legacy alive.

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    Breakdown

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1978

    Billboard #40


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